Meet Michael Jastrzebski, director of spa at Spa Vea at Vea Newport Beach (CA), who has 3 years of experience in the spa and hospitality industry.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
I never expected to find myself in the spa industry. Dance had been a central part of my life since I was 5, and I pursued it professionally as a ballet dancer, so I couldn’t have imagined doing anything else. Yet, I began craving a new challenge and the opportunity to explore a different path. Just before the start of the next ballet season, I made the leap and accepted a position as a spa receptionist at the Four Seasons in Austin. At the time, I had no idea this step would become my next calling. Three years later, that journey has brought me to this incredible property, and I am deeply grateful for this journey.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of being in the spa industry?
One of the most challenging parts of working in the spa industry is getting to know each guest and understanding what they need to feel their best. Everyone comes with their own preferences, concerns, and goals, so it takes attention, empathy, and flexibility to provide the right experience. The most rewarding part is seeing the difference we make. When a guest leaves feeling relaxed, restored, and truly cared for, it reminds me why I love this work. Leading a team that can create those moments not only brings joy to our guests but also inspires and supports our staff, which makes all the challenges worth it.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
There are so many moments I’m proud of throughout my time in the spa industry, but if I had to choose my proudest accomplishment, it would have to be my dance career. The blood, sweat, and tears I poured into training from such a young age made receiving an offer to pursue dance professionally feel completely surreal. That discipline, dedication, and rigor have shaped who I am today and laid the foundation for everything I’ve been able to achieve in the spa industry. So much of where I am now is thanks to those early lessons in perseverance and commitment.
What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
One of the biggest surprises in working in the spa industry has been how much it is about connection. It is not just about providing treatments, but about creating moments of comfort, trust, and care that touch both guests and the team. Before working in a luxury spa, I had only experienced basic services focused on injury prevention or functional care, so I didn’t expect this level of intention. Experiencing it firsthand has been both unexpected and deeply rewarding.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
I think the spa industry is heading toward a deeper integration of holistic wellness and human connection. While the growing trends of technology and will influence how spas operate, the true growth will come from creating experiences that genuinely nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Spas that prioritize intentional care, emotional wellbeing, and thoughtful service will stand out, because no app or machine can replace the feeling of being truly seen and cared for. In my view, the future of spas is less about flashy innovations and more about authentic, restorative experiences that leave people feeling genuinely renewed.
What positions have you worked in that you feel have been most influential to your career?
One of the most influential roles in my career was serving as spa manager at Alila Ventana Big Sur (CA). Leading the department in such a breathtaking setting allowed me to truly develop my leadership style and create a vision that matched the unique energy of the area. It challenged me to think creatively, manage a talented team, and deliver experiences that felt as exceptional as the surroundings. That role really helped me grow both as a leader and as someone who wants every guest to feel a deep sense of restoration and connection.
Was there a time you had to make a decision in your career that ended up changing your destiny?
Leaving ballet three years ago was a pivotal moment that completely changed my path. Dance had been my life since I was 5, and stepping away was both terrifying and exhilarating. That decision taught me to trust my gut and to not be afraid of pursuing something different, even if others might not understand it. It was a reminder that growth often comes from taking risks, listening to yourself, and being open to unexpected opportunities.
How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
I try to enjoy the little things in life and appreciate the challenges that help me grow and learn. For me, every experience, big or small, is an opportunity to find joy.
How do you like to spend your time away from work?
Outside of work, I love shopping and exploring new finds, but I also make time to be in nature, which keeps me grounded. I’m getting back into ballet and the performing arts, which has been a joyful way to reconnect with a lifelong passion. I, of course, enjoy receiving spa services and exploring skincare, which helps me relax and stay inspired in my work.
What are your three greatest priorities in life?
The things I value most in life are growth, connection, and balance. I am always driven to learn and push myself in new ways, both personally and professionally, while finding inspiration through the relationships I build. Keeping a sense of balance between work and personal joy helps me stay grounded and show up fully in everything I do.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
The best advice I have received is to remind yourself of what is going well and not get stuck on the negative. Taking time to notice progress, big or small, and feeling grateful for it helps me stay positive, grounded, and open to whatever comes next.